Citation :

Albert Jorddy Valenzuela Inga, Tania Mishel Vásquez Montoya, Nelfa Estrella Ayuque Almidon, Carlos Quispe Anccasi, Boris Senin Carhuallanqui Parian, "Optimization of Solar Efficiency in Civil Infrastructure: Design and Structural Validation of an Automated Maintenance Device for Solar Panels," International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 13, no. 7, pp. 254-261, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V13I7P116

Abstract

Photovoltaic devices are commonly used in civil engineering as they provide a sustainable energy source for infrastructure. However, dust accumulation on these devices can cause an efficiency loss between 15% and 40%. Current automated cleaning solutions often lack a detailed structural assessment an as consequence of the risk of mechanical failure in the long-term increases. In this study, a photovoltaic cleaning device -that can be integrated in a non-invasive way in existing photovoltaic supporting frames-and its preliminary structural assessment is presented. The structural assessment was divided into to operation modes called Service Case and Strength Design Case. The latter one applied a factored load. In the service case, the device evidences a maximum von Mises stress of 8.79 MPa and a displacement of 0.145 mm. In contrast, in the Strength Design Case, which uses factored loads, a stress of 14.298 MPa and a displacement of 0.235 was found; the safety factor for both cases was 15. These results indicate that designed single-axis devices evidenced a suitable preliminary structural response under static loading conditions. Compared to rotary or drone cleaning solutions, the presented design is less complex as it used linear guided motion. The cleaning efficiency, dynamic response, wind effects, or long-term durability were out of the scope of the study and would require prototyping. The presented devices provide a useful way of maintaining photovoltaic panels in existing structures and increase the adoption of this renewable energy in civil engineering, developing infrastructures.

Keywords

Automated maintenance, Civil infrastructure, Finite element method, Photovoltaic systems, Solar panel cleaning.

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